The Ohio State Highway Patrol Auxiliary is an all-volunteer force which provides assistance to troopers in the course of their duties. Among the duties of an Auxiliary officer are crash scene and traffic stop assistance, traffic control, disaster relief and special detail support.
The OSHP Auxiliary was formed in 1942 when many commissioned troopers began entering the armed forces during World War II. At that time, membership was limited to the members of the American Legion which was largely made up of war veterans who were unlikely to be drafted into service.
After the war, the Auxiliary was a critical component of Ohio's Civil Defense Plan, with officers assigned to vital crossroads to assist with evacuation and convoy movement.
Today, Auxiliary members contribute thousands of hours in an assortment of functions. Each is required to log a minimum of 120 hours per year to remain active. Membership is no longer limited to American Legionaires.
Current requirements to become an Auxiliary are:
Must have valid Ohio driver license
Age 18-57 (except for retired OSHP officers)
Good physical condition
High school diploma or GED
No felony convictions
Pass a background investigation
Pre-employment polygraph exam
Ability to communicate in a clear manner
Availability for training and service
Applicants must pass a medical exam, which must be conducted by a physician at their own expense. Applicants must also pass written and physical tests. Auxiliary members are required to conform to grooming standards and purchase a uniform.
For more information on the Auxiliary, including how to apply, go here.